This page explains a conceptual relationship between two terms within Shahrur’s thought, and how this relationship works in the construction of meaning.
The Meaning of the Relationship
The meaning here is that terrorism is understood as a state of awe and military deterrence, not as an incitement to chaos or the planting of fear in society. The relationship between the two sides is based on the idea that terrorism is what achieves deterrence and creates awe; that is, it deters the adversary and prevents aggression, within an understanding that distinguishes between legitimate deterrence and illegitimate intimidation.
The Two Sides of the Relationship
- First side: terrorism
- Relationship: means
- Second side: awe and deterrence
Evidence
- The Mother of the Book and Its Elaboration via Terrorism Means Legitimate Deterrence
- Evidence text: - Terrorism: in the context of the verse, it is understood as awe and military deterrence.
- Terrorism/intimidation: distinguishing between legitimate deterrence and the planting of fear and chaos in society.
Its Effect on the Knowledge Map
This relationship acquires its importance because it fixes the position of the concept of terrorism within the conceptual map and prevents it from sliding into the meaning of chaos or general intimidation. It connects terrorism to the concept of legitimate deterrence, and thus helps build a decisive distinction in the knowledge network between a legitimate use tied to security and protection, and a negative use tied to intimidation and destabilizing society.